www.chirpthird.com: Thinking of buying ZAINO; Have Questions

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Posted by camarosource (Member # 1318) on :

Interested in giving Zaino a try. I use & SWEAR by Durashine. Absolutely NOTHING i've ever used has ever come close to it's shine and easy of use. Water SHEETS off rather than BEAD so car dries in matter of minutes with NO water spots. Course, driving eventually adds bits of dust to the car and so I usually can just use a gentle stream of water and it's renewed back to before.

A person I know uses Durashine and then uses Meguiars Quik Detailer . It's a light spray you spray on and wipe dry. It REALLY reduces any dust forming around the car but it changes the water to BEAD... When this happens, it dries to ugly water spots..

Curiousity has gotten the best of me and so I am want to try Zaino. I am mainly curious as to it's effectiveness in the long run.

However, I have some questions that I would greatly appreciate answered before I spend this amount (close to $200 Canadian!!!!)

I'm in Canada, Vancouver BC to be exact.. (WETTEST place in Canada)

As a result, and hearing that Zaino BEADS, I was wondering if these nasty water spots will show up right after a rainfall even with ZAINO?? If this is the case, it would mean I paid $200+ Canadian for ZAINO, spent hours applying it.. only to have nasty water spots as soon as it rains and dries ;-( DURASHINE doesn't dry with beads and so there aren't any water spots.. But bits of dust attract.. So I wanted to test out ZAINO because of the HUGE, HUGE HYPE.. :-)

Here is what DURASHINE does with my car:

http://www.camarosource.ca/new/new_layout/featured_rides/paul/paul_cam92_back.jpg
http://www.camarosource.ca/new/new_layout/featured_rides/paul/small_version.jpg
http://www.camarosource.ca/new/new_layout/featured_rides/paul/paul_cam92_top.jpg
http://www.camarosource.ca/new/new_layout/featured_rides/paul/paul_cam92_r_front.jpg
http://www.camarosource.ca/new/new_layout/featured_rides/paul/paul_cam92_hood.jpg
http://www.camarosource.ca/new/new_layout/featured_rides/paul/paul_cam92_front.jpg
http://www.camarosource.ca/new/new_layout/featured_rides/paul/paul_cam92_back_side.jpg

As you can see, DURASHINE does not bad a job.. So you can see why all the questions.. $200+ for another car shine is alot to pay if it will be basically the same as what I have now. ;-)

So here are my questions:

1. How many coats would you say you need to put on before you really notice a difference between the "competition"?

2. Do ugly water spots appear every time it rains and dries? (Vancouver would be BAD in this case)

3. How often would you say you have to ZAINO the car once it's been ZAINO'd? Do you do the entire routine over again? or mainly Zaino Wash it (Z-6)... If so, how often?

6. Comparison: Z-14 PLASTIC-MAGIC CLEANER & POLISH: compared to the stuff I use "Turtle Wax Black Chrome Cleaner/Sealant" (Approx. $10Cdn) ? Is Zaino Z-14 really worth the extra $$ (Approx. $22Cdn) or is it basically the same as what I use? (In other words, "SAVE YOUR MONEY")

9. #314 CUSTOM 4x5 POLISH APPLICATOR: What exactly is this, A terry cloth towel? Is this worth it or just a regular Terry Cloth tower (%100 cotton from USA)?

10. Anyone here have pictures of all there products? To see a visual representation of the actual size of each of the products..? (here in Canada, we don't use OZ. we use ML.).. I'm curious to know what the applicator looks like.

If all these products are worth it.. I would be paying $133US ($201Cdn) for all *11* products. (Z1, Z2, Z5, Z6, Z7, Z10, Z12, Z16, Z18, ZFX, & #314)...

Thanks very much for all your replies.

Posted by Kevin V 2002 SS (Member # 1025) on :

1. How many coats would you say you need to put on before you really notice a difference between the "competition"?
I noticed a great shine with the first coat, it only gets better with each coat added and since Zaino stacks and doesn't wash off, you can keep adding coats and increasing the shine, protection and durability.

2. Do ugly water spots appear every time it rains and dries? (Vancouver would be BAD in this case)
Most of the time NO, but if you do, Zaino is so slick, the come right off with the Z-6 enhancer spray.

3. How often would you say you have to ZAINO the car once it's been ZAINO'd? Do you do the entire routine over again? or mainly Zaino Wash it (Z-6)... If so, how often?
The initial routine of wqashing with Dawn and claying is only the prep work, it isn't avtually a Zaino thing and should be done on occassion regardless of what product you use, BUT, the prep work is done the first time. An occassional light claying may be done a couple times a year to keep it smooth. You won't use Dawn again, which is used to remove the wax and oils, especially since the Dawn wouldn't remove the Zaino anyway.

4. Comparison: Z-10 "LEATHER IN A BOTTLE" TREATMENT AND CONDITIONER compared to the stuff I use "Armor All Leather Care Protectant " (Approx. $10Cdn) ? Is Zaino Z-10 really worth the extra $$ (Approx. $20Cdn) or is it basically the same as what I use? (In other words, "SAVE YOUR MONEY")
In time, Armor All will actually dry out and ruin what you use it on. The Z-10 conditioner can be used on the leather and entire interior, suchas dash, console, plastic panels, etc. The Z-10 won't attract and hold dust like AA does and it even has UV protection in it to help protect, instead of eventually ruining it as the AA will. The Z-9 leather cleaner is also great.

5. Comparison: Z-12 CLEAR-VIEW GLASS POLISH: What exactly is this? Like Windex to clean the windows?
Z-14 PLASTIC-MAGIC CLEANER & POLISH: Is this really WORTH. (Approx. $22Cdn) or is it basically the same as what I use? (In other words, "SAVE YOUR MONEY")
The Z-12 and Z-14 is a mild abrasive, the Z-12 for glass and Z-14 for hard plastics such as tail light lenses. I love the Z-12 it really works great. It is only used occasssionally to remove "build-up", it isn't a regular window cleaner like Windex. If you don't have any "dulled" tail light or headlight lenses I wouldn't worry about getting this yet.

7. Comparison: Z-16 PERFECT TIRE GLOSS: compared to the stuff I use "Meguiars Gold Class Endurance High Gloss Tire Shine" (Approx. $14Cdn) (This large 473ml. bottle will EASILY Last 3 years or more) ? Is Zaino Z-16 really worth the extra $$ (Approx. $22Cdn) or is it basically the same as what I use? (In other words, "SAVE YOUR MONEY"). I've used other products but I want a SHINY look to the tires.. but one that won't attract dust like a magnet.. Meguiars Gold Class Endurance High Gloss Tire Shine" is absolutely incredible.. the shine is amazing.. but it's sticky and attracts dust somewhat.. Is Z-16 a high gloss shine or a small slight clean look.. not much to speak of..?
The Z-16 isn't as wet or glossy looking. I'm not that wild about the "wet" look, to plastic looking for me. The Z-16 makes it look like a brand new tire. It also has UV protection in it to help preserve the tire. I even use it on all the weather stripping, it works great. The Z-16 won't sling off like most other tire products do and doesn't attract and hold dust. But it is a matter of taste.

8. ZFX™ Flash Cure Accelerator Additive: This is very confusing for me.. I cannot seem to find the answer to this question.. You apply Zaino Z-1 and then ZFX? It says it speeds up drying.. how much faster? Does this mean you don't have to let Z-1 dry for like 24 hours?? This stuff costs $30+ Canadian and it's only 2ML?!?!?!? That like a BUCK A DRIP.. That is way beyond rediculous.. it's smaller than my free 3ml sample of contact lend cleaner..
With the ZFX additive you do not need the Z-1. You would want to use the ZFX additive at least the first application and a couple of times a year or any time you want to do multiple coats in a day (zero curring time with ZFX). The additive does indeed reduce drying time. If applied properly, very thin, the polish without the additive shouldn't take more than 30-45 minutes to dry, unless it is VERY cold or incredibly humid. If it does it was applied too thick. With the ZFX additive, when applied as thin as recommended, where you started will be dry by the time you finish applying it to the entire car and if you are really good at applying it thin, 5-10 minutes.

9. #314 CUSTOM 4x5 POLISH APPLICATOR: What exactly is this, A terry cloth towel? Is this worth it or just a regular Terry Cloth tower (%100 cotton from USA)?
If you are using 100% cotton then there isn't a big benefit. I buy the Zaino pads by the dozen though, they are the best pads I've ever found.

If all these products are worth it.. I would be paying $133US ($201Cdn) for all *11* products. (Z1, Z2, Z5, Z6, Z7, Z10, Z12, Z16, Z18, ZFX, & #314)...
I'd recommend getting the Z-2 polish, the Z-6 enhancer spray, the Z-7 wash, the Z-18 clay and the ZFX as a minimum. With the ZFX you do not need the Z-1, though it is still a great pre-cleaner. Based on some of my responses you decide what else you'd like to try. But you will be better off using the Z-10 than AA, the Z-12 does work great on the getting the crud off the glass.

By the way, if water only sheets off your car and does not bead, you have NO protection on your car. Zaino is the best protection you'll find. I could relate some great stories but my fingers are tired. If you have more questions just post them.

[ 29 June 2002: Message edited by: Kevin V 2002 SS ]

Posted by MaryandRalph (Member # 244) on :

Yep' Kevin said it all, the important part for you will be the first cleaning as he atated in #3.

Posted by camarosource (Member # 1318) on :

We don't have DAWN in canada.... So what detergent can I use to prep the car and remove all polish/wax from the car when you first went to use Zaino?

Did you use the leather cleaner or conditioner?

I was hear Zaino's tire gloss is a light gloss.. I like Maguiars because of the HIGH GLOSS..

Is there a Canadian distributor?

Posted by SSteve_35th (Member # 1300) on :

First of all - be prepared for Kickback to join this fray and explain why his polish is better than yours or Zaino.

I had never heard of Zaino before getting my SS LE and joining this Board but I use the various 'Z' products now. I used to use Meguires on my '95 Impala SS and always thought it did a good job. Starting with a new, unwaxed car, I thought "well, if all these other SSers use and like Zaino, why not give it a try." So I ordered sort of a started kit, got some Dawn, and went to work. I think they recommend Dawn simply because it is a high alkaline detergent and will remove wax - but it doesn't hurt the paint in any way as far as I know.

Anyway, the Zaino 'treatment' seems to do a really good job. The SS looks great and really shines. At a recent local car show sponsored by the area Corvette club, a judge was looking at my car and said "this thing just glistens". That works for me! Oh yeah, I did get a trophy. That was my first car show for the SS.

BTW, your car looks really nice in the pictures. If you do switch to Zaino, I'm sure it will be interesting to find out if you think it works better than what you have been using.

A tip I learned from my Zaino dealer "The Gloss Boss" in Indiana - be sure to apply the various products very lightly. A little goes a long way and makes it much easier to polish off.

Will we see you at the F-Body Gathering in Bowling Green, KY in September?

Posted by NVMY02SS (Member # 1422) on :

you know whats funny kickback was suppose to sen me a "free" sample of his product to see if i liked it and i never got it. i would have tried it to see which was better.

i would use it on the everyday car instead of the ss first though!

Posted by Kevin V 2002 SS (Member # 1025) on :

quote:
Originally posted by camarosource:
We don't have DAWN in canada.... So what detergent can I use to prep the car and remove all polish/wax from the car when you first went to use Zaino?
Did you use the leather cleaner or conditioner?
I was hear Zaino's tire gloss is a light gloss.. I like Maguiars because of the HIGH GLOSS..
Is there a Canadian distributor?

Not sure which dish soap to use in Canada, maybe one of the Canadian broh's will be able to answer that.

I use the leather cleaner and conditioner on my entire interior, in fact, it is the only thing I use on my interior, except a glass cleaner.

The Zaino tire gloss does not give the real wet look. If you like the very high gloss look on the tires you may not prefer Zaino, but the Z-16 tire gloss is excellent for all the rubber molding and weather striping.

There is at least 1 Canadian distributor. E-mail Zaino and ask who the closest distributor is to you. wet@zainobros.com

Posted by camarosource (Member # 1318) on :

Thank you all for your replies. I very much appreciate all the time you guys took to respond to my questions.

The result of all your help, I WILL be purchasing Zaino.

I am going to get Z2, Z5, Z6, Z7, Z8, Z18, ZFX & 314 (314 comes free with order).

I have heard great things about Z10 (Leather Conditioner) and am really thinking about getting this as well. But I am wondering what Z9 is all about (Leather Cleaner). I don't have any stains on my leather, would this be a waste of money for me in this case? Do you NEED Z9 for Z10? Is there any advantage for having both?

I have also heard great things about Z12 (Glass polish/cleaner). I am thinking PERHAPS to get this but have not decided yet. What EXACTLY will this do? is it really worth it? How often do you need to use this? It's only a 8oz bottle for $21.95 (for 8 oz. that is alot of money)

Z9, Z10, and Z12 are all tiny 8oz. bottles. This size is really pushing be back from wanting to purchase them. These three little 8oz. bottle will cost me $54.85 (excluding tax's)!! ONLY Z9 (The Cleaner) is a spray (would last the longest).. The rest are all squirt bottles.. How much do you use of this stuff? I can't see Z10, and Z12 lasting that long.

Posted by MOO4340 (Member # 471) on :

Well, I suppose its my turn to tell you about RACE GLAZE, got to be the best Polish/Sealer products that you can possibly use and it cost much less. The whole kit is only $75.00. Consist of 16oz. Bottle of Polish/Sealer,32oz. Bottle of Leveling Compound, 32oz Bottle of Fast Action Compound, 16oz Bottle of Sprayhighlighter, 16oz Bottle of WASH and 16oz. Bottle of Trim Renew. The Leveling Compounds act just like a liquid clay bar, but have no crystalline silica, no silicone and no wax. The polish, when used in conjuction with a micro fiber towells, will give you a portective shine coat that last up to six months.
Have used on my 2000SS and at the recent Gathering Six, my car scored 985 points out of a possible 1000.
Will be glad to send you a sample if interested.
KICKBACK

Posted by DanA_F99_1977 (Member # 118) on :

Where have you been! I was waiting for that.

Posted by CK-1 99SS (Member # 93) on :

They do sell Dawn dish soap in Canada but there is no choice of color. I can't remember exactly what color it is but I used it and it seemed to take everything off.
As far as the water spots on Zaino, Yes you do get them after it has rained and dried. Z-6 does take them off but only if you get to it right away. If it sits in the sun for a period of time they don't come out. Trust me I have a few nasty ones on my car.
There is a couple of distributors here in Canada. One in Ontario and one in Winnipeg. If you talk to Mike Adams in Ontario he will not tell you where the closest dealer is because he wants to sell it to you and make the profit. I will have to look at my records to get you the contact in Winnipeg. Send me an e-mail at knops@src.sk.ca and I will let you know the Winnipeg guy if you are still interested..

Posted by camarosource (Member # 1318) on :

quote:
Originally posted by CK-1 99SS:
There is a couple of distributors here in Canada. One in Ontario and one in Winnipeg. If you talk to Mike Adams in Ontario he will not tell you where the closest dealer is because he wants to sell it to you and make the profit. I will have to look at my records to get you the contact in Winnipeg. Send me an e-mail at knops@src.sk.ca and I will let you know the Winnipeg guy if you are still interested..

Email sent. Yes very interested.. If you can get back to be within 1 hour.

Posted by poSSum (Member # 119) on :

Blue Ivory is the Liquid Dawn equivalent. I believe it even says Dawn in small letters somewhere on the label.

Posted by camarosource (Member # 1318) on :

What kind of packaging was the zaino products put into? (Not the the bottles but the bottles themselves put into). Fancy cardboard box? Are there any printed instructions on how to use zaino, when to put what and what not to do? And printed tips on using zaino put in the packaging?

Posted by camarosource (Member # 1318) on :

How do you mix Z7? It is SUPER CONCENTRATED but what are the mixing instructions?

Posted by Kevin V 2002 SS (Member # 1025) on :

Everything you'd ever want to know is on the Zaino website. I use about 1-2 capfuls of the Z-7 in a bucket to wash the car. If you mean for lube for claying mix about 1 capful in 16 oz or so.

www.zainobros.com

If you still have any questions, post away.

Posted by lancemoreland (Member # 1478) on :

Here is where I buy mine.

web page

Posted by camarosource (Member # 1318) on :

Bought the kit..

Still waiting for zaino :-) Absolutely torture having to wait.. :-)

Does anyone here have any pictures of the ZFX containers and the ZFX itself? Or can take pics of it?

I have all the pics of the rest but not that..

Posted by Bill 97 SS#1422 (Member # 253) on :

quote:
Originally posted by camarosource:
Bought the kit..
Still waiting for zaino :-) Absolutely torture having to wait.. :-)
Does anyone here have any pictures of the ZFX containers and the ZFX itself? Or can take pics of it?
I have all the pics of the rest but not that..

Here

And the ZFX will be in the little Blue bottle and it will be ony half full

Posted by camarosource (Member # 1318) on :

Put on Zaino.. Absolutely speachless!! DAMN

Questions:

#1. I applied the Z2/Z5/Z6 on my windows.. Is this ok? Left them absolutely CLEAR but perhaps it's not needed and to just use my Z12 (Clear-View Glass Polish)?

#2. I used only 1/2 oz. on the ENTIRE CAR with 1 coat (including windows) and only 1/4 oz. for my second coat (Including windows).. Did I use too LITTLE? I know it's less than 1 oz. per coat on a car but 1/4 - 1/2oz. sounds like I should have applied more per coat?

#3. Z12 Clear-View Glass Polish says to use on NON-COATED windows.. What's this mean? Aren't front Windshields coated for a bit of tint? Windshields always displace water off them but differently than on the back or front. I have NO aftermarket tinting on any of my windows.

#4. How many times would you say you have gotten use out of your Z18 Clay bars? I found it tended to break into little pieces by the time I was finished claying the entire car. Each clay bar, how many times did you do your car with it? Before you had to go to the second clay bar inside the container.

#5. Z6 says you can use it to polish plastic.. Can I use it to polish the plastic air induction box on my 5.7L TPI V8?

Thanks for your time,

Posted by Hawkeye (Member # 88) on :

Hi

I use only Z6 or rainX on my windows, exterior only. I have after market tint on inside and you have to be careful on what you use. On the inside I use GM window foam cleaner.

I tend to put too much Zaino on. Less is actually better than more. If you put too much it will smear and be harder to buff out. Keep layering it on, I have over 100 coats on my black SS and it shows.

Not to knock Zaino, but I found that MacGuires Gold tire tressing is better than Zaino and I use
Autosolv to polish the chrome rims. That's from the old days of polishing motorcycle chrome.

Oh, a last tip, keep some Z6 and a cloth in the car. After driving on the highway, at fillups a quick spray and wipe and the bugs come right off.

Yes you can use Z6 on your air box. I did mine and it shines! I only clay when necessary, so my bar has lasted quite awhile.

Hope this helps!

Enjoy your ride, looks SSweet.

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